Mumbai is set to expand its urban transit network with the opening of two new metro rail stretches by the end of this month, according to officials from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Portions of Metro Line 9, between Dahisar East and Kashigaon, and Metro Line 2B, between Diamond Garden and Mandale, will be operationalised by December 31, marking the first phase of both corridors.
Sources indicated that the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety is expected to grant clearance for Line 9, keeping in view the enforcement of the model code of conduct ahead of local body elections. The two new metro stretches are likely to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Mumbai Metro Expands: Line 9, 2B Boost Connectivity Significantly
Metro Line 9 is an extension of Line 7 and forms a 13.58-kilometre elevated corridor connecting Dahisar East with the rapidly growing Mira-Bhayandar region. This new stretch is expected to significantly improve northward suburban connectivity and reduce travel time for daily commuters. Meanwhile, Metro Line 2B, which runs from DN Nagar in Andheri West to Mandale in Mankhurd, remains under construction, with trial runs currently underway on its first phase, a 5.3-kilometre section between Mandale and Diamond Garden in Chembur.
Officials said MMRDA plans to commission the second phase of Line 2B, from DN Nagar to Saraswat Nagar in Khar, by next summer. This will leave only the central stretch between Saraswat Nagar and Diamond Garden pending. Once completed, the 23.6-kilometre Line 2B, featuring 20 stations, will provide Mumbai with a crucial second east-west metro link, enhancing connectivity across the city.
Mumbai Metro Expansion Set to Transform Commuting, Reduce Congestion
The expansion of these metro lines is expected to ease road congestion, promote sustainable urban mobility, and strengthen the overall public transport network in Mumbai. With faster, cleaner, and more reliable commuting options, residents of the northern and eastern suburbs will benefit from improved accessibility and reduced travel times.
Summary:
Mumbai will open portions of Metro Line 9 (Dahisar East–Kashigaon) and Line 2B (Diamond Garden–Mandale) by December 31, enhancing north-south and east-west connectivity. Line 2B’s second phase will follow next summer. The expansion aims to ease congestion, improve commuting, and strengthen Mumbai’s public transport network for northern and eastern suburbs.
